Everyone knows that flossing daily and brushing at least twice per day is important to good dental hygiene. But if you are pregnant there are a couple additional things to remember. A visit with our Hinsdale family dentist can provide you with all the essential information you need to know to keep your teeth healthy during your pregnancy.

There are several obvious things you should do if you are pregnant. Discontinue use of all sources of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs. On the positive side eating a diet full of fruits, vegetables and foods that provide the healthy vitamins and minerals needed to provide essential nutrients for you and your baby is crucial.

Your dentist might also recommend vitamins to supplement a healthy diet as well as drinking milk. Your dentist might also suggest you limit snacks and discontinue sugary beverages to try to keep your teeth free from bacteria that gravitates to the sugar left behind.

If you believe you might be pregnant, it is very important to tell your dental provider. Your baby does a majority of its development in the first trimester, so avoiding dental treatment during this time is best. If you require emergency dental treatment during your pregnancy, x-rays are perfectly safe as long as the lead apron is used correctly while taking radiographs.

During your pregnancy your hormones change significantly. Due to these changes, you might be more susceptible to plaque build-up so practicing excellent oral hygiene habits are essential.

If you experienced problems with your gums from gingivitis to periodontal disease prior to your pregnancy, you could be at risk for delivering preterm or a low birth weight baby. And if you have diabetes, your risk increases. Following your dentist’s explicit instructions during your pregnancy will help avoid this outcome.

If you would like to learn more about healthy dental tips and suggestions to follow during pregnancy, please contact Hinsdale Dentistry at 630-323-4468.

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